LAC vs. ALB: Which Lithium Stock Has More Upside Potential Now?

Core Insights - Lithium Americas Corp. (LAC) and Albemarle Corporation (ALB) are both involved in lithium exploration, development, mining, processing, and production, with Albemarle also producing specialty chemicals for various industries [1][2] Company Overview Lithium Americas Corp. (LAC) - LAC is developing the Thacker Pass lithium mine in northern Nevada, which is the world's largest known measured lithium resource and reserve, with a planned output of 40,000 tons per year of battery-grade lithium carbonate [5] - The construction of the Thacker Pass project is progressing, with mechanical construction of Phase 1 expected to be completed by late 2027, and engineering work over 80% complete as of September 30, 2025 [6][8] - LAC has not yet generated revenues and relies on equity and other financings, facing operational constraints due to its omnibus waiver loan agreement [9][10] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for LAC's 2025 EPS implies a year-over-year decline of 176.2%, with widening loss estimates for 2025 and 2026 [16][20] Albemarle Corporation (ALB) - ALB is enhancing its global lithium conversion capacity and focusing on high-return projects, with increased sales volumes in its Energy Storage unit and successful production from its integrated conversion facilities [11][12] - The company is implementing cost-saving measures targeting $450 million in improvements, with a reduced capital expenditure outlook of around $600 million for 2025 [13][14] - ALB had liquidity of approximately $3.5 billion at the end of Q3 2025, with an operating cash flow of around $893.8 million for the first nine months of 2025, reflecting a 29% increase from the previous year [14] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for ALB's 2025 EPS implies year-over-year growth of 48.3%, with narrowed loss estimates for 2025 and increased EPS estimates for 2026 [17][21] Valuation Comparison - LAC is trading at a forward price-to-earnings (P/E) of negative 14.32X, while ALB is trading at a forward P/E of 639.06X [15] Conclusion - LAC holds a promising long-term asset in Thacker Pass but faces significant funding, regulatory, and execution risks, remaining pre-revenue and dependent on external financing [20] - In contrast, ALB is a global leader in lithium and specialty chemicals, demonstrating operational maturity, financial stability, and strong cash flows, positioning it favorably amid volatile lithium prices [21][22]